Free Online Nursing Courses & Continuing Education

If you're a registered nurse (RN), keeping up with continuing education is part of maintaining your license, but it doesn’t have to be expensive. There are plenty of free online nursing courses available, including options that offer continuing education credits (CEUs) as well as general learning opportunities.

Whether you're meeting renewal requirements or just looking to expand your knowledge, online courses make it easier to learn on your schedule. Many nurses choose flexible self-paced online courses so they can fit CEUs around work and personal commitments.

Are There Free Online Nursing Courses?

Yes, many platforms offer free online nursing courses. Some are designed for general knowledge, while others are specifically created to meet continuing education requirements for licensed nurses.

These courses cover a wide range of topics, from clinical skills to specialty care areas. Whether you're looking to fulfill CE requirements or explore new areas of nursing, there are plenty of options available.

Can I Earn Nursing CEUs Online for Free?

In many cases, yes, you can earn CEUs online at no cost. Many healthcare organizations and accredited providers offer free continuing education courses that include certificates upon completion.

However, not all free courses qualify for CE credit. It’s important to verify that the course is approved by your state board or an organization like the ANCC before enrolling.

Best Free & Low-Cost Nursing Courses & CEUs

Below are some of the top platforms offering free online nursing courses and continuing education opportunities. These options include both accredited CEU courses and general learning resources.

1. Nurse.com Courses

Nurse.com offers a range of resources for nurses, such as information on state licensing requirements and certification test prep materials. It also provides numerous free CE courses, such as:

• The NIH Stroke Scale
• Pediatrics: Developmental Milestones
• Managing Psychiatric Emergencies in the ED

The courses provide varying numbers of contact hours and build upon nursing fundamentals in various specialties. They are commonly accepted as continuing education for licensing purposes.

• Cost: Free
• Course length: 0.25 to 1.5 contact hours

2. Nursing CE Courses

NursingCE.com is a site devoted to providing continuing education resources for nurses, nurse practitioners, and other healthcare professionals. The site currently offers two free continuing education courses:

• Mentorship Nursing
• Nursing Evidence-Based Practice

The courses are recognized by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), and students receive certificates of completion after passing the post-tests. Nurses are encouraged to check back on the website often, as more free courses will be added over time.

• Cost: Free
• Course length: One ANCC contact hour

3. Wild Iris Medical Education Courses

Wild Iris Medical Education, Inc. is an organization with a wealth of CE resources available on its website. It currently offers three free courses, as follows:

• COVID-19: The Impact of a Pandemic on Mental Health
• Sexual Harassment Training Course
• Respiratory Viruses: 2024-2025 Vaccine Update

The organization's courses are ANCC-accredited and accepted by state nursing boards throughout the country. Enrolling in the courses mentioned enables students to gain valuable CE credits completely free of charge.

• Cost: Free
• Course length: One contact hour

4. American Association of Critical Care Nurses (AACN) Courses

The American Association of Critical Care Nurses (AACN) is a professional organization providing education, certification, and other resources related to critical care nursing. It offers various CE courses and activities, such as:

• Pregnant Patients in Critical Care
• Implementing Staffing Standards in Adult Critical Care
• Ambulation Protocol for ECMO Patients

Students can take these courses for free for a limited time when they sign up for a free account on the AACN website. Beyond this initial window, students will have to pay to take courses; however, due to the high quality of the courses available, many students find that they are worth the price.

• Cost: Free
• Course length: Varies

5. Elite Learning Courses

Elite Learning is a website affiliated with Colibri Health and packed to the hilt with CE resources for various healthcare professionals. Some of the free nursing courses include:

• Culture and Pain Management
• Cognitive Screening for Dementia
• Effects of Aging on Communication

These courses are generally available in the form of webinars. Though the courses come from outside providers and typically have fees, students can complete them for free through a membership with Elite Learning.

• Cost: Free
• Course length: One to four clock hours

6. MyCME Courses

MyCME.com provides training and resources for nurses, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and other healthcare professionals. Some of its free online courses for nurses include:

• Clinical Crossroads: Personalized Management in EoE
• The Role of Novel Methylphenidate in Treating ADHD
• Resistant Hypertension: New Avenues for New Treatments

Courses may be delivered in various forms, including video, audio, webinar, case study, interactive, or conference. Students have a wide variety of advanced courses to choose from, allowing them to learn about particular interests as they meet licensure requirements.

• Cost: Free
• Course length: .25 to 2.50 contact hours

7. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)/National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Courses

The CDC and NIOSH have partnered to create CE courses for nurses and other healthcare professionals. Two of the courses available are titled as follows:

• Workplace Violence Prevention
• Training for Nurses and Shift Work and Long Work Hours

These courses are available on the CDC website and provide official contact hours for nurses looking to complete state licensure requirements.

• Cost: Free
• Course length: 1.25 to 3.0 contact hours

8. CDC Train Courses

In addition to the official courses found on the CDC website, the CDC provides hundreds of informational and continuing education courses online through Train.org. These are known as CDC Train courses, and examples of what's available include:

• Hepatitis C: Epidemiology and Natural History
• Managing Pain Without Opioids
• A Clinician's Role in Overdose Prevention

Many of these courses are approved by professional organizations, such as the ANCC, and accepted by state nursing boards. They are typically self-paced, though some may feature live online sessions or segments.

• Cost: Free
• Course length: Varies

9. edX Courses

The online learning platform edX hosts courses on many different topics from various sources, such as colleges and professional organizations. Some of the nursing courses available include:

• Essential Competencies for Nurse Preceptors
• Non-Suicidal Self-Injury Awareness for Nurses
• Global Public Health

These courses are typically used for information purposes only, though some organizations may recognize some of them as continuing education. Students hoping for a certificate must pay to complete each course; however, those who want to study for free can opt to audit the course instead of earning a certificate.

• Cost: Free
• Course length: Varies

10. Alison Courses

Alison is well-known worldwide for providing an infinite database of free online courses on every subject imaginable. Some of the nursing courses include:

• Palliative Care Nursing
• Nursing Studies - Patient Care and Hygiene
• Nursing and the Elderly

Again, most of these courses are completed for informational purposes rather than continuing education credits; however, some lead to certificates or diplomas and may be accepted as continuing education in some settings.

• Cost: Free
• Course length: Varies

How We Rank Courses

We evaluate nursing courses based on what matters most to working professionals. The goal is to highlight options that are accessible, flexible, and relevant to real-world practice.

• Affordability: All listed courses are free or offer free access options.
• Online availability: Courses must be accessible online and flexible for busy schedules.
• Course provider reputation: We consider accreditation, industry recognition, and provider credibility.

What You’ll Learn in an Online Nursing Course

Online nursing courses can help you stay current with best practices while building new skills. Many CEU courses focus on practical applications that you can use immediately in your role.

You may learn skills such as:

• patient care techniques and clinical updates
• specialty topics like pediatrics, mental health, or geriatrics
• evidence-based practice methods
• communication and patient interaction skills
• workplace safety and compliance standards
• updates in healthcare regulations and treatments

How Much Do Online Nursing Courses and CEUs Cost?

Many online nursing courses are completely free, especially those offered by professional organizations, government agencies, and continuing education platforms. These often include certificates and contact hours at no cost.

If you choose paid options, costs typically range from about $5 to $50 per credit hour. Some learners also explore broader learning paths, including free online classes for adults, to expand their knowledge beyond required CEUs.

Who Should Consider Free Online Nursing Courses and CEUs?

These courses are ideal if you need to maintain your nursing license while keeping costs low. They’re especially helpful for nurses balancing full-time work and continuing education requirements.

They’re also a great option if you want to explore new specialties or refresh your skills. Even experienced nurses can benefit from staying current with evolving healthcare practices.

Career Outlook With Continuing Education in Nursing

Continuing education is essential for maintaining licensure and staying competitive in the nursing field. It demonstrates your commitment to professional growth and patient care.

As healthcare continues to evolve, nurses who stay up to date with new practices and knowledge are better positioned for advancement. CEUs can also support specialization and career mobility.

How to Choose the Right Free Nursing Course or CEU

Choosing the right course can help you meet requirements efficiently while gaining valuable knowledge. Taking a strategic approach can save you time and effort.

Verify CE Approval

Always confirm that the course is approved by your state board or a recognized accrediting body. This ensures your credits will count toward renewal.

Focus on Relevant Topics

Choose courses that align with your current role or future career goals. This helps you get more practical value from your learning.

Consider Course Format

Some courses are self-paced, while others include live sessions or webinars. Select a format that fits your schedule and learning style.

FAQs About Free Nursing Courses Online

If you still have questions about online nursing education, you’re not alone. Here are some common questions nurses have when exploring free course options.

Are There Any 3-Month Nursing Courses Online?

Some self-paced courses can be completed within three months, especially certificate programs or continuing education modules. However, these do not qualify you for initial nursing licensure. Becoming a nurse requires completing an accredited degree program.

Are There Any 6-Month Nursing Courses Online?

There are some longer certificate or informational programs that can take around six months. These are typically designed for skill-building or continuing education. They do not replace formal nursing education programs.

Do Free Nursing Courses Count Toward License Renewal?

Many free nursing courses do count toward license renewal if they are accredited and approved. However, some are informational only. Always verify acceptance with your state board.

How Many CE Hours Do Nurses Need Each Year?

Requirements vary by state, but many require between 10 and 30 contact hours per renewal period. Some states require specific topics or minimum hours. Check your state board for exact requirements.

What Types Of Continuing Education Do Nurses Need?

Nurses can complete continuing education in a wide range of topics depending on their specialty and state requirements. In addition to general nursing courses, some may also pursue specialized courses, such as free stroke nursing CEUs, to build expertise in specific areas of patient care.

Can I Complete All CEUs Online?

In many states, yes, online CEUs are widely accepted. However, some states may have limitations or additional requirements. It’s best to confirm with your licensing authority.

Discover Affordable Nursing Programs and Courses

Free courses are a great way to stay current, but they’re just one part of your professional development. If you’re considering advancing your career, additional training can open new opportunities. You can explore nursing programs on Learn.org to compare options, learn about specializations, and connect with schools that fit your goals.